Babies are not only sensitive to the world outside but also to the foods that they are given. Babies have the most rapid brain growth from the time they are born until the age of one. A baby's brain triples in size during this time. They are also experiencing rapid development of the central nervous system.

Babies need to have a high-fat intake to ensure that they are provided with enough energy to be active and to develop brain cell membranes that protect each of the nerves.

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid, helps the brain cells develop and communicate more efficiently. For mothers that breast-feed their children, they can take a supplement to ensure that they are providing enough DHA through their breast milk. Mothers who bottle-feed can now choose from a variety of canned milks that contain the DHA fatty acids, which babies need for brain development.

What happens if your child does not have enough DHA in their diet?

Infants may have slow and reduced brain development, which affects their visual clarity and eye development.

There may be a decrease in overall intelligence and academic performance as they develop.

They may be more susceptible to degenerative diseases of the central nervous system.

Some studies show they may develop smaller brains and have delayed central nervous system development.

Lack of sufficient DHA may lead to poor school performance as they develop.